Yoga is a gentle and holistic form of exercise that can support both your physical and emotional wellbeing, making it an excellent choice for anyone including people living with or recovering from cancer. Practising yoga at home allows you to move at your own pace, in a space where you feel safe and comfortable, while giving you the opportunity to reconnect with your body.
Gentle movement for body and mind
Focusing on breathing, strength, flexibility and mindfulness, yoga can help ease many of the side effects that cancer and its treatments bring. Fatigue, stress, anxiety and tension are common challenges, and the calming nature of yoga provides a valuable way to manage these feelings. The slow, controlled movements and stretches encourage better circulation and oxygen flow, which in turn can aid in reducing swelling, improving energy levels and enhancing your overall mood.
Yoga is also considered a strengthening exercise. This is particularly important during and after treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as maintaining muscle strength and joint flexibility can support your immune system and improve your body’s resilience. Gentle weight-bearing postures help to keep bones strong, while mindful breathing exercises can improve lung capacity and bring a sense of calm.
One of the many benefits of yoga is that it can be adapted to suit all ages, fitness levels and abilities. Whether you’re seated in a chair, lying down, or standing, there are movements and stretches that can be tailored to your individual needs. Yoga can also help improve balance and coordination, which is especially helpful during recovery periods.
You can follow along with online videos, join a virtual class like ours, download an app’ or simply practise a few stretches and breathing exercises on your own. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference, helping you feel more centred, relaxed, and in control of your body again.
Find out more about maintaining your fitness with cancer here
Yoga and exercise tutorials
Explore the yoga and Pilates tutorials from the NHS and Bupa, and start your yoga journey at home
